Mukesh Khanna, a celebrated Indian actor, is renowned for his iconic portrayal of Bhishma Pitamah in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat and for introducing India’s first television superhero, Shaktiman. This comprehensive biography explores his life, career, and notable controversies.

Wiki/Biography

Mukesh Khanna was born on Thursday, June 19, 1958 (age 66 as of 2024), in Mumbai. His zodiac sign is Gemini. He received his schooling alongside renowned actors Naseeruddin Shah and Shakti Kapoor. He later graduated from Mumbai’s St. Xavier’s College with a B.Sc. degree and subsequently earned a Master of Laws degree. Interestingly, before pursuing law, he aspired to be a Plastic Engineer. His educational journey culminated with graduation from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 6′ 1″
• Eye Colour: Black
• Hair Colour: Salt & Pepper

Family & Caste

Mukesh Khanna hails from a Hindu Khatri family. Information about his parents remains scarce. He had an elder brother, Ved Khanna (deceased in 2018), who was also an actor and producer. His elder sister, Kamal Kapoor, sadly passed away from a lung disease on May 12, 2021, shortly after recovering from COVID-19.

Relationships, Wife & Children

Mukesh Khanna is unmarried and has never been publicly involved in any romantic relationships.

Career

Film

Mukesh Khanna’s film career began with his debut in the 1981 Hindi film, Roohi, after which he appeared in over 60 Bollywood films. While many weren’t box office successes, some notable commercially successful films include Saudagar (1991), Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), Barsaat (1995), Raja (1995), and Hera Pheri (2000). He also expanded his cinematic horizons with Telugu (Dhana 51, 2005), Marathi (Ardha Gangu Ardha Gondya, 2014), and Malayalam (Rajadhi Raja, 2014) films.

Television

Mukesh Khanna’s television career truly cemented his stardom. His breakthrough role came in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat (1988). Initially offered the role of Duryodhana, he declined due to its negative nature, ultimately landing the iconic role of Bhishma Pitamah. His portrayal became one of the most memorable in the series.

His performance as Shaktimaan, India’s first homegrown superhero, catapulted him to further fame. Shaktimaan, aired from 1997 to 2005 on Doordarshan, became a cultural phenomenon. The show’s popularity extended to a telefilm, Hamara Hero Shaktimaan (2013), and an animated series, Shaktimaan: The Animated Series (2011).

Beyond Mahabharat and Shaktimaan, his television credits include roles in Chandrakanta (1994-1997) and Aryamaan – Brahmaand Ka Yodha (2002-2003). He’s also a producer of several television shows, including Mahayodha, Shaktimaan, Aryamaan – Brahmaand Ka Yodha, Sautela, and Hamara Hero Shaktimaan.

Politics

Mukesh Khanna joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1998 and actively campaigned for the party in various elections.

Signature/Autograph

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Controversies

Shaktimaan and Children’s Fatalities

Following the airing of Shaktimaan, several incidents of children attempting to emulate the superhero’s feats led to injuries and fatalities. Mukesh Khanna addressed these concerns in a Shaktimaan episode and subsequent interviews, emphasizing the fictional nature of the character’s abilities.

Derogatory Remarks Against Women

In August 2022, a video uploaded to his YouTube channel sparked controversy due to remarks deemed derogatory towards women. This led to condemnation and an FIR filed against him.

Verbal Spat With Sonakshi Sinha

A public disagreement with actress Sonakshi Sinha in December 2024 further fueled media attention.

Favourite Things

• Actor(s): Clint Eastwood, Dilip Kumar
• Politician(s): Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Narendra Modi

Facts & Trivia

• He was 30 years old when portraying Bhishma Pitamah.
• Initially, he desired to play Arjuna or Karna in Mahabharat.
• Despite supporting the BJP, he was once employed by the National Conference for campaigning.
• He has criticized contemporary historical television serials for their perceived inaccuracies.
• Shaktimaan achieved international recognition, appearing in publications such as The Wall Street Journal.
• He maintains a strict adherence to the positive roles and strong moral image he projects onscreen.
• He served as Chairman of the Children’s Film Society, India (CFSI) for a period.
• He owns Bheeshma Productions and runs acting schools across India.

Additional Information